ABB buys container port technology provider

Tuesday, February 12, 2013

The power and automation technology company ABB has acquired APS Technology Group (APS), a San Diego-based company that develops and markets solutions for the port industry.
The acquisition is aimed at expanding ABB’s crane system portfolio to the container terminal market. The transaction is expected to close in the first quarter of 2013.
APS supplies vision-based automation solutions that identify containers, trucks, rail equipment, and other transport assets for ports and intermodal container facilities. The systems help container terminals, port authorities and shipping lines to streamline their operations by automating manual processes within gate, vessel, rail and yard operations.
APS will join ABB’s Process Automation division.
“The acquisition of APS is an important milestone for us to expand our terminal automation offering and provide our customers with added-value integrated solutions,” said Heikki Soljama, head of ABB’s marine and cranes business unit. “This acquisition is a good strategic fit for our existing solution portfolio, and will further strengthen our product portfolio.” - Eric Johnson